Stopping loop when output = 0

[ajsimeon]

so just put both probes on the positive (red) wire?

[johnsold]

To test the current the ammeter must be connected in series with the current flow to be tested. To measure voltage the voltmeter is connected in parallel with the circuit being measured.

My guess is that you connected an ammeter in parallel with your battery. That is equivalent to shorting out the battery. NEVER do that!! You could cause the battery to explode. It could destroy the battery, your meter, the test leads, the circuit board in the equipment. This might ruin your day.

If you are not sure how to make these measurements, please consult with a competent engineer for your own safety and to prevent damage to your equipment.

Lynn

[ajsimeon]

so just put the probes on the red wire (positive) wire?

[stanthetiger]

Hi ajsimeon,

You put your probes on the wire you want to measure the current going through. You would need to break/disconnect the wire, so that you can put your probe in series with circuit. See diagram below

Before,
<----------------WIRE-------------->

After,
<------WIRE------><--PROBE-->                 <--PROBE---><------WIRE------>

Regards,
Stanley Hu
National Instruments
Applications Engineering
http://www.ni.com/support

[Ben]

I am late on the "0" thing but will add anyway....

In 29 years I have never seen an instrument return "0" without something being broke. When it comes to making measurements, "zero is an imaginary number".

Ben

[ajsimeon]

ok thanks for the replies guys.  i'm getting a reading but for battery testing am I supposed to see the current go down as the battery dissipates or is current supposed to be constant.  or is voltage supposed to be constant.  thanks guys.  learning a lot.